Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus has urged political parties to build a national consensus to rebuild the country and prevent the return of authoritarianism, warning that the opportunity created by recent student-led protests must not be lost to “small things.”

Speaking at the Foreign Service Academy during a meeting between the National Consensus Commission and political leaders, Yunus emphasized the historic nature of the moment, likening it to a genie being released from a bottle.

“Through this mass uprising, a genie has been created. What will we ask of him? Will we ask for tea, or ask him to change the world?” he asked.

Yunus stressed that the upcoming general election, planned for the first half of February, represents more than a simple transfer of power.

“It will be the true rebirth of the nation… So much sacrifice, so much blood — these will be worthwhile if we achieve that rebirth.”

The Chief Adviser highlighted the need for sweeping reforms to block any path for the return of fascism, saying, “We must work together in agreement. There is no room for dissent here.” He cautioned that unresolved political disagreements could be exploited, leading to instability.

Yunus called on all parties to finalize decisions in good faith and unity:

“Whenever you make a decision, do it with embraces and handshakes. Then elections and everything else will be meaningful.”

He praised party leaders for their willingness to engage with the National Consensus Commission despite initial doubts, noting that the model being developed could serve as an example for other nations.

“This will not remain only a Bangladesh experience. Other countries will take note of the method we have adopted.”

The Commission was formed in response to months of protest and unrest, and aims to guide the legal and political reforms laid out in the July Charter. Yunus concluded by reaffirming the stakes of the moment, urging leaders to act with unity and purpose for the nation’s future.